As a father of 8, and now a grandfather of two boys, Tipene has always been driven by a deep sense of responsibility to his whānau, his community, and now, to the next generation of health and wellbeing professionals. Cavalli College is proud to welcome Tipene as a new lecturer in Health and Wellbeing, bringing with him not only years of experience in education, but a powerful personal journey that now shapes his teaching.
Being a solo dad, focused on raising his children, his return to the workforce was sparked by a desire to be more present and effective for his whānau. This led him to enrol in Level 3 Mental Health and Wellbeing program, not only to improve his own mental health but also to explore how he could help others.
“I wanted to understand different mental health challenges, but also wanted to work in the mental health sector, and to understand how it all works.
That passion soon became purpose. When a facilitator role opened in the level 3 program, Tipene applied and got the job. “I loved the course, but I also saw ways that I could contribute to improving the learning journey for the students. Taking on that role meant I could make a direct impact, and that was the beginning of my career as a Health and Wellbeing lecturer. The following year, we rolled out the level 4 program throughout Te Tai Tokerau.” (Northland)
Tipene is a strong believer that mental health and addiction remain some of the biggest challenges facing communities today. His goal is to be part of the solution, not just by teaching, but by helping shape a workforce that is empathetic, culturally aware, and driven to make a difference. “I wanted to be a part of creating the workforce that will support whānau in my community, be part of the change, be directly involved, and have influence on how we could change this around”, he says.
After recently spending time as the primary caregiver for his mother, Tipene was ready to return to the workforce and broaden his horizons. Looking beyond Northland for new opportunities, he was drawn to Cavalli College. “The chance to be part of something new, something that’s going to make a real difference, was exciting. Everyone I have met so far are all truly inspirational.”
At Cavalli, Tipene is already making an impact. He’s committed to helping students, especially those new to study, build confidence and realise their potential.
“I want my students to believe in themselves. I want to give them confidence in themselves, show them that they are capable and be an example, that there is hope and that you can succeed and achieve your goals and aspirations, whatever they might be.”
He’s also helping strengthen cultural competence among both students and staff, bringing lived experience and authentic Māori perspectives into education and beyond.
Tipene’s teaching philosophy is simple but powerful:
“I don’t consider myself someone who knows everything. I encourage my students to bring their experiences to their learning journey. I run my online learning community like a whānau, where everyone feels welcome and respected.”
Cavalli College is honoured to have Tipene on board, a teacher, a role model, and a true advocate for community wellbeing.
Ready to start or advance your Health and Wellbeing studies with Tipene and Cavalli College, apply online today.